Self Help Tools

This classroom will walk you through the basics of security deposits in Maine, from what you should do before you move in, to what you can do if you don't get your deposit back when you move out. It explains what security deposits are, and steps you can take to make sure you get your deposit back when you move out.

If you're more than $500 in debt on your electric bill, this program may be able to help you. You pay just your current monthly electric bill, each month and on time. For each month that you pay your current bill, your electric utility company will wipe out 1/12 of what you owe them on your back bill. Learn about how to enroll!

This year, you won’t have to worry about losing your benefits if you get a big tax refund. Starting in 2011, any tax refunds you get will not affect most public benefits, or how much you get!
Under the law passed in December 2010:

It is illegal for a Maine landlord to refuse to rent to you because of your color, race, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, having children, or getting public aid. Contact us if you have questions or think you have suffered illegal housing discrimination.

What does "Fair Housing" mean?
In Maine we have both state and federal “fair housing” laws. They say that a landlord cannot refuse to rent to you, and a seller cannot treat you differently, because of your:
-race
-color
-national origin or ancestry (where you or your family came from)...

It is not easy to balance a household budget when you have a low income. But you can supplement your income by claiming all of the benefits and supports you have the right to claim. Here is a checklist. Make sure you are not leaving money on the table!

What is "Subsidized Housing?"
There are different kinds of subsidized housing. Some are public housing, and some aren't. If your rent goes by your income, your housing is “subsidized.” This is true even if your house or apartment is owned by a person or company, and not the government.